Do Unto Otters: A Book About Manners is a charming and humorous animated film based on the children's book written by Laurie Keller. The movie tells the story of Mr. Rabbit (voiced by Rusty Young), a friendly and courteous woodland creature who lives in a cozy treehouse with his wife and two children. When a family of otters, the McBeevers, move in next door, Mr. Rabbit is initially hesitant about befriending them. He has heard rumors about otters being wild and unruly, and wonders if they will respect his family's boundaries.
However, Mr. Rabbit soon realizes that the McBeevers are eager to get to know him, and are also interested in learning about manners and etiquette. Together, they embark on a fun and educational journey to discover the importance of treating others the way they would like to be treated. Along the way, they encounter a variety of quirky animal characters, including a wise owl, a bossy beaver, and a chatterbox squirrel.
The film is beautifully animated, with bold and bright colors that capture the whimsical spirit of the original book. The voice acting is top-notch, with Rusty Young's gentle and warm performance as Mr. Rabbit providing the perfect anchor for the story. The other voice actors, including Jack Sundrud as Mr. McBeever, bring their own unique personalities to their roles, and deliver their lines with impeccable comedic timing.
One of the standout features of the film is its attention to detail when it comes to teaching manners in a fun and accessible way. The characters go on a number of adventures that illustrate the importance of saying please and thank you, sharing, and respecting others' personal space. The film also touches on more complex issues, such as cultural differences and the importance of apologizing when you make a mistake.
Despite its educational content, the movie never feels preachy or forced. The story feels organic and enjoyable, with the lessons about manners woven seamlessly into the narrative. The film also never loses its sense of humor, with plenty of witty one-liners and physical comedy to keep both kids and adults laughing.
Overall, Do Unto Otters: A Book About Manners is a delightful and heartwarming film that both kids and adults will enjoy. Its charming characters, colorful animation, and important messages about manners make it a must-watch for any family.
Do Unto Otters: A Book About Manners is a 2018 family movie with a runtime of 12 minutes.
